GMC Terrain vs Chevrolet Equinox
When professionalism meets adventure, the compact SUV becomes more than a way to commute—it evolves into your daily companion and weekend freedom machine.
Today at Andy Mohr Buick GMC, as we compare the GMC Terrain vs. Chevrolet Equinox, sharing many similarities in size, power, and baseline features, we’ll see that the Terrain stands apart with its elevated design, premium technology, and advanced driver aids.
Let’s unpack each aspect that defines why the Terrain holds the edge throughout Fishers, Indianapolis, and Carmel, Indiana.
Terrain vs Equinox Performance Features
The Terrain relies rely on a turbocharged 1.5L engine that produces 175 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel drive is suitable for a kick, and you can handle all kinds of different terrains with an all-wheel drive model boost.*
The Equinox uses a continuously variable transmission for front-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic with AWD, while the Terrain equips front-wheel drive with a CVT and has an overall smoother-shifting eight-speed automatic when equipped with AWD.
This difference in power delivery gives the Terrain an edge. Its dedicated 8-speed automatic enhances throttle response, making acceleration feel more immediate and gear transitions more seamless—qualities that reviewers have described as “more polished,” especially when comparing Terrain to Equinox CVT models.
The Terrain’s towing capacity of 1,500 pounds with AWD matches that of the Equinox, but the Terrain’s refined torque delivery and transmission smoothness give it a more confident towing presence.
Terrain vs Equinox Model Design
Though both vehicles occupy the same footprint, with a 107.5-inch wheelbase and identical cargo volume, their visual identities differ. The Terrain offers bold C-shaped LED lighting, a grille evoking GMC’s truck DNA, standard 17-inch wheels, and two-tone paint options on Denali and AT4 trims. By contrast, the Equinox sports all-LED lighting, available 20-inch alloy wheels, and stylistic trims such as the ACTIV, which is more flashy than functional.
Though the Equinox is modestly longer and broader, Terrain's slightly taller build and more rugged aesthetic project a presence that feels both elevated and grounded.
Terrain vs Equinox Interior Features
Both SUVs comfortably seat five adults and offer nearly 30 cubic feet of cargo behind the rear seats and 63.5 cubic feet when folded. However, the Terrain's interior environment feels notably more upscale. With available premium cloth or leather, massaging front seats, dual-zone climate control, and an optional power liftgate, the Terrain's cabin is crafted for refinement.
While the Equinox features suede upholstery and heated seats with an inviting layout, the Terrain elevates the experience with a driver-focused design, tactility of materials, and an overall atmosphere of comfort that exceeds mere functionality.
Terrain vs Equinox Tech Features
Terrain's tech offerings outshine Equinox's. Standard on Terrain is a striking 15-inch touchscreen with Google-built-in services, wireless Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and more. The Terrain integrates modern convenience with intelligent design.
In contrast, the Equinox features an 11.3-inch infotainment screen, an 11-inch digital driver display, and wireless smartphone mirroring.
While this configuration satisfies most users, it lacks the expansive display size and premium console flow offered by Terrain, elements that contribute to overall cabin quality and usability.
Terrain vs Equinox Safety Features
Both SUVs are equipped with great safety features, such as automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, rear park assist, and surround vision.
Terrain extends this support with Automatic Parking Assist, which can independently steer into parking spaces while the driver manages acceleration and braking. It also offers a Safety Alert Seat across mid- to high trims, providing tactile warnings of potential hazards, whereas the Equinox limits this feature to its RS trim level.
Terrain also offers a Rear Camera Mirror and up to eight camera views—enhancing visibility and confidence behind the wheel. This suite of driver assistance technologies ensures Terrain drivers enjoy a more immersive and intuitive safety experience.
Terrain vs Equinox Off-Road Handling
While Equinox's ACTIV trim delivers competent ride comfort and a modest off-road aesthetic, it lacks dedicated off-road hardware. Conversely, Terrain offers an AT4 trim that pairs rugged suspension tuning with Hill Descent Control™ and an aggressive stance for light off-roading.
Even without this trim, Terrain’s AWD suspension and transmission dynamics provide a composed, reassuring ride that reviewers consistently describe as refined and confident.
Why the GMC Terrain Stands Above the Competition
The Terrain separates itself through its advanced transmission, cavernous and functional cabin, expansive and intuitive infotainment, wide-reaching driver assistance, and rugged-ready off-road capability without inflating cost.
Equinox offers a well-rounded package with stylish design and dependable baseline features, and the Terrain makes the step-up in refinement and technology feel worth every extra dollar.
How to Buy Your New GMC Terrain on Our Website
Embarking on the path to owning a GMC Terrain is simple on our website. Whether browsing from home or on the go, every step of the purchasing journey is designed for clarity, convenience, and confidence.
Upon visiting our Terrain vs. Equinox comparison page, you’ll find direct access to all necessary resources to move forward with your purchase.
Explore our full inventory, complete with current availability per trim. If you’re seeking a specific variant—such as the rugged AT4 or luxury Denali—easily filter, compare, and select the one that fits your lifestyle.
Once you've selected a model, our online value-your-trade tool lets you receive an immediate estimate for your current vehicle, helping you get an accurate cost before visiting the dealership.
Next, the finance application can be completed securely online, guiding you through credit pre-qualification. Or you can even schedule a test drive from home.
FAQs
Q: How does the Terrain’s 8-speed automatic transmission compare to the Equinox’s CVT?
A: Yes. On AWD models, it delivers smoother gear transitions, firmer acceleration response, and a more engaging drive compared to the Equinox CVT, which tends toward a softer, more intrusive tone when pushed—Terrain feels engineered for refinement.
Q: Can both handle off-road conditions?
A: Both vehicles offer AWD, but Terrain takes serious steps with the AT4 trim, which includes off-road suspension and Hill Descent Control™. The Equinox ACTIV is styled like a rough-road companion but doesn't include nearly the same rugged readiness.
Q: Which offers better safety technology?
A: Both come with a full suite of GM Safety Assist features, but Terrain goes further with Automatic Parking Assist, Safety Alert Seat availability across trims, and a wider variety of camera systems—features only available on the Equinox RS.
Choose Between the GMC Terrain vs the Chevrolet Equinox Today
Suppose you’re choosing between the Terrain and the Equinox and want a vehicle that elevates your drive in both practicality and presence. In that case, the Terrain answers the call with authority near Fishers, Indianapolis, and Carmel, IN.
The GMC Terrain demonstrates how far small SUVs can advance, combining technology, capability, and comfort without compromising value. It refines every element—powertrain, infotainment, safety, and ride quality, to deliver a compact SUV that serves as a premium daily driver and a confident weekend explorer. Contact us today when you’re ready for drives to Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve.